Specialized cells in the heart are able to maintain a rhythmic heartbeat due to the rapid spread of electrical current through
A) tight junctions.
B) desmosomes.
C) neurons.
D) channel proteins.
E) gap junctions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gap junctions are specialized protein channels that connect adjacent cells and allow for the rapid spread of electrical impulses. In the heart, these gap junctions allow for coordinated contractions and maintain a rhythmic heartbeat. Tight junctions and desmosomes are involved in cell adhesion and do not play a role in electrical signaling. Neurons are not specialized cells in the heart. Channel proteins also allow for the movement of ions, but they do not allow for rapid electrical signaling between cells.

Specialized Cells in the Heart Are Able to Maintain a Rhythmic